Winter driving in Iceland
What to expect on Icelandic roads from November to April, and how to plan for it.
Winter tyres on every car
Every car has winter tyres from November to April, at no extra cost.
Do you need a 4x4?
In winter, a 4x4 gives you more grip on snowy passes and in the countryside. If you're staying near Reykjavík and the south coast, ask us: we'll tell you honestly whether you need one.
Check the roads and the weather every morning
Conditions change fast. Look at the road conditions map on umferdin.is and the forecast and wind warnings on vedur.is before you set off. The road information line is 1777.
Plan around short days
In midwinter there are only four to five hours of daylight. Plan shorter driving days, and leave room to stop if the weather turns.
Watch the wind
Strong gusts can push a car on open roads and pull a door out of your hand. Slow down in wind, and hold the door firmly when you get out.
Fill up when you can
Fuel stations and fast chargers are easy to find along the Ring Road, but they're far apart in the highlands and the east. Electric cars also lose range in the cold.
Leave a travel plan
Register your route on safetravel.is, and call 112 in an emergency.
Official sources for roads, weather and safety are on our useful links page.
Useful links